Nigeria Launches National Shipping Carrier

Nigeria is making significant progress towards refloating a national shipping carrier and modernizing its ports nationwide. Gboyega Oyetola, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, announced that Nigeria has secured the interest of international partners, including Abu Dhabi Ports Group and DP World, to collaborate on the national carrier initiative. This move aims to reduce dependence on foreign shipping lines, retain maritime value within the Nigerian economy, and create employment. The port modernization program, a transformative intervention by the administration of President Bola Tinubu, is not limited to Lagos but includes upgrades for ports in Warri, Port Harcourt, Onne, Calabar, Apapa, and Tin Can Island. Additionally, approvals have been granted for new deep seaports in Bayelsa, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, and Ondo States. These projects are expected to expand Nigeria's maritime capacity, decongest existing ports, open new economic corridors, and position Nigeria as a leading maritime gateway in Africa. Gboyega Oyetola also emphasized strict accountability for agencies under his ministry, including Nigeria — Nigerian Ports Authority and Nigeria — Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, to ensure tangible results.